Residence and health care facility.
Details of Site Location: The east side of Power Street, south of Queen Street East and south of St. Paul’s Church.
Boundary History: The lot was substantial and the facility large, being part of a complex of buildings serving the community
Current Use of Property: The Richmond Street ramp for the Don Valley Parkway.
Historical Description: The site in use as The House of Providence was the largest charitable institution in Toronto. It contained a convent for the Sisters of St. Joseph, who ran the facility, and a huge number of residents from the community. Designed by William Hay, the centre block and north wing were completed in 1855–58. The main building was 130′ x 60′ and was four storeys high, large and imposing, based on architectural styles from France. Special attention was given to the roof. The facility opened in 1857 while it was still under construction. The House of Providence cared for the elderly, orphans, the poor, the sick, and immigrants, without regard to creed: as described in the 1859/60 directory, “the Indigent, Superannuated and Emigrants.” Poor men lived in a detached building. One use was as an orphanage from 1859 to 1885 for boys and until 1891 for girls. In January 1875 a new wing, 140′ x 55′ and costing $35,600, was opened. The south wing, designed by Joseph Connally, was built in 1881. In the 1890s, the House of Providence had about 530 residents, including 30 Sisters in charge. The building was demolished in the 1960s.
Relative Importance: This was a handsome building, with architecture reflecting the dignity of the institution’s role. The House of Providence was a major factor in the life of the city, one of its main charitable institutions, which continued in that location for more than a century. The House of Providence was also important through its association with the splendid St. Paul’s.
Planning Implications: The property that included the House of Providence and St. Paul’s Church and burial grounds forms an important part of Toronto’s history and should be seen as a whole. The complex can be collectively commemorated on a plaque facing Power Street.
Reference Sources: George Dixon, 1842–1892 Jubilee Volume (Archdiocese of Toronto, 1892); City Directories 1859–1883; Archives of Providence Villa, Sisters of St. Joseph.
Acknowledgements: Enoch Turner Schoolhouse.